BUFFALO, NY On Saturday, June 27, thousands of cyclists, volunteers and supporters helped break fundraising records at The Ride For Roswell 2009, presented by Wegmans and Wellness Sponsor Praxair. Despite the nation’s economic challenges, volunteers and donors helped raise more than $2.2 million at Western New York’s largest one-day cycling event in support of cancer research and patient care at Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

The success helped organizers surpass the $10 million cumulative fundraising mark since the event’s inception 14 years ago.

More than 6,500 cyclists and over 500 teams took part in eight different routes at this year’s Ride, including a 12-mile Peloton, sponsored by Sahlen’s, that traveled from Roswell Park’s campus in downtown Buffalo to the University at Buffalo’s Baird Point. Riders, many who participate in honor of their own cancer experiences or those of a loved one, have raised pledges at an impressive pace over the past months.

This year’s Ride offered a special tribute to patients and survivors at “Inspiration Station,” an area dedicated to honor those who have battled or are battling cancer. Inspiration Station featured photos and quotes from cancer survivors and their families, and offered those in attendance the chance to gather and celebrate their survivorship.

“Western New Yorkers again have demonstrated their inspiring capacity for generosity and a continued commitment to supporting Roswell Park,” said Dr. Donald L. Trump, President and CEO, Roswell Park Cancer Institute. “Today’s event is proof that even under tough circumstances, supporters of The Ride For Roswell are some of the country’s most dedicated fighters in the cancer cause.”

Roswell Park Cancer Institute, founded in 1898, is the nation’s first cancer research, treatment and education center. The Institute was one of the first cancer centers in the country to be named a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center and remains the only facility with this designation in Upstate New York. RPCI is a member of the prestigious National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the nation’s leading cancer centers; maintains affiliate sites; and is a partner in national and international collaborative programs. For more information, visit RPCI’s website at www.roswellpark.org, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) or e-mail askrpci@roswellpark.org.